In the Long Run

Why do I devotedly follow reality TV which many viewers and critics disdain as brainless muck?

I enjoy the game concepts. Some of the challenges and tasks that the players face are mentally and physically quite difficult. I competitively assess how my performance in such circumstances would compare to the show’s actual players.

I find the interaction between contestants in their “real”, but actually so artificial, environments captivating. I follow their manipulations and conniving with fascination. I plot and scheme right along with them, and imagine how I would use my character strengths and the opponents’ character flaws to my advantage.

It’s cheap and amusing entertainment. At the end of the day, the shows’ contestants are the ones who have to slog through mud or dive to debilitating depths while completing complicated obstacle courses. I’m comfortably wrapped up in my afghan on the couch at home while they shiver and shake during torrential monsoons. I casually nibble on Crunch ‘N Munch while at times they are forced to eat native delicacies like cow lips or hissing beetles.

I have favorite contestants, like Dustin and Kandice, who became my favorite contestants on The Amazing Race only after Erwin and Godwin, two very classy brothers, were eliminated. Now I don’t know for whom I’ll root in the final three on that show.

But awesome Ozzie, you’re still the man to beat on Survivor. Unless of course, Yul is able to use the Immunity Idol to his advantage, resulting in your being voted off. Oh, and watch out for Sundra—she’s a real sleeper, flying under the radar. Parvati might have a chance too, because she actually has some true athletic ability to supplement her tried and true flirting technique....

I guess the bottom line is that reality TV is my pleasurable escape from reality.

Posted by Cyppy at 10:42 PM